But there seems to be something lacking. Something I'm sure I'd need. Oh yes, of course, The Butler.
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
WANT WANT WANT WANT
Tigtog has a new meme. Name eight places in your home country where you would like a house. I'm still working on the eight homes but in one of them I want this gorgeous Balinese day bed which is currently living in Daniella Helayel's designer home. I can see me lounging here with books, magazines and chocolates. It would have to be on a cliff overlooking the ocean. I like ocean storms.
But there seems to be something lacking. Something I'm sure I'd need. Oh yes, of course, The Butler.
But there seems to be something lacking. Something I'm sure I'd need. Oh yes, of course, The Butler.
Monday, October 27, 2008
Sunday, October 26, 2008
TRY MAKING JEWELLERY WITH THESE
Crystal Palace — Photo Gallery — National Geographic Magazine
You'll have to follow the link, the National Geo page wouldn't let me just grab the photograph.
The size of these selenite crystals has to be seen to be believed.
You'll have to follow the link, the National Geo page wouldn't let me just grab the photograph.
The size of these selenite crystals has to be seen to be believed.
Saturday, October 25, 2008
IF ANYTHING ELSE GOES WRONG......
The last post was Friday not Thursday. It was late and I changed the date for some reason so I thought it was time I was in bed.
I like a shower at night, it relaxes me. A shower in the morning is wasted on the day's dramas.
I sprinkle lavender oil on the pillow and drift off to sleep. The only one snoring is me and I don't hear myself.
That's usually the plan but last night when the soothing stream of hot water hit me so did the hot water tap. The little knob (shut up Hughes) that holds the handle on flew off and so did the tap.
The thing is small, my glasses are outside on the vanity basin.
I found the handle and put that back but I had to scrabble around the tiles with my toes to find the other thing. And screwing it on, oh fun, because the spindle had to be pulled out from the wall so I could put the tap handle on properly before I could get the screw thingy on.
And do you think I wasn't praying the hot water wouldn't run out before I could turn the tap off.
I like a shower at night, it relaxes me. A shower in the morning is wasted on the day's dramas.
I sprinkle lavender oil on the pillow and drift off to sleep. The only one snoring is me and I don't hear myself.
That's usually the plan but last night when the soothing stream of hot water hit me so did the hot water tap. The little knob (shut up Hughes) that holds the handle on flew off and so did the tap.
The thing is small, my glasses are outside on the vanity basin.
I found the handle and put that back but I had to scrabble around the tiles with my toes to find the other thing. And screwing it on, oh fun, because the spindle had to be pulled out from the wall so I could put the tap handle on properly before I could get the screw thingy on.
And do you think I wasn't praying the hot water wouldn't run out before I could turn the tap off.
Thursday, October 23, 2008
XE BANG FAI RIVER CAVE IS BIIIIIIIIG!
These images are of the Xe Bang Fai River cave in Laos.
A French explorer went through the huge cave on a bamboo raft in l905 with another French team returning in 1995.
Caver John Pollack came here in 2006 and in 2008 when the spelunking team mapped an photographed the 5.9-mile length of the cavern for the first time. According to Pollack the Xe Bang Fai River cave has some of the largest rooms and structures of any river cave on earth. He said that everything about the cave is big including the spiders which can be 10 inches across.
Expedition co-leader Bob Osburn is producing a detailed map of the cavern and the expedition's photographer Dave Bunnell shot these pictures. The rest of the team consisted of four Canadian and four American researchers with Loatian guides and assistants.
The expedition was funded by the National Geographic Society and spent ten days surveying and photographing the cave.
This is the Cave's downstream entrance which was used by the expedition travelling in lightweight kayaks and communicating by walkie-talkie.
This spelunker is standing in front of draperies made of calcite deposits. They are located about 2 miles from the cave's downstream entrance.
This is a stalagmite of tremendous size which dwarfs the explorer. Stalagmites are made of mineral deposits from dripping water which evaporates and leaves the minerals behind.
The explorers called this large room "the Cathedral" for its high vaulted ceiling. The cave not only has a downstream entrance but an upstream one as well. The volume of water that passes through the cave and the size of its passages would make Xe Bang Fai River cave one of the largest river caves on Earth.
A French explorer went through the huge cave on a bamboo raft in l905 with another French team returning in 1995.
Caver John Pollack came here in 2006 and in 2008 when the spelunking team mapped an photographed the 5.9-mile length of the cavern for the first time. According to Pollack the Xe Bang Fai River cave has some of the largest rooms and structures of any river cave on earth. He said that everything about the cave is big including the spiders which can be 10 inches across.
Expedition co-leader Bob Osburn is producing a detailed map of the cavern and the expedition's photographer Dave Bunnell shot these pictures. The rest of the team consisted of four Canadian and four American researchers with Loatian guides and assistants.
The expedition was funded by the National Geographic Society and spent ten days surveying and photographing the cave.
This is the Cave's downstream entrance which was used by the expedition travelling in lightweight kayaks and communicating by walkie-talkie.
This spelunker is standing in front of draperies made of calcite deposits. They are located about 2 miles from the cave's downstream entrance.
This is a stalagmite of tremendous size which dwarfs the explorer. Stalagmites are made of mineral deposits from dripping water which evaporates and leaves the minerals behind.
The explorers called this large room "the Cathedral" for its high vaulted ceiling. The cave not only has a downstream entrance but an upstream one as well. The volume of water that passes through the cave and the size of its passages would make Xe Bang Fai River cave one of the largest river caves on Earth.EVERY DAY A LITTLE MORE
Morning phone call with demand. "You'll have to get some toilet rolls and bring them round, I'm having visitors." There was a slight pause while the steam vented through my ears. I bought 18 toilet rolls last Thursday and with the one in the cupboard, that made 19. There are two people living in the house and one visitor. Nobody gets through 19 toilets rolls in a week. Do you think that didn't start the day off peachy! She's hidden them, I know she has, alternatively they've fallen to the side of the pantry where she forgets to open the door. In any case I wasn't buying anymore so she goes to Plan B, ring my sister who takes some over.
I'm still in the dark hole from the weekend but it's getting shallow and light is beginning to shine from the outside in.
I was invited to an anniversary party on Sunday. The theme is science fiction since we're all sci-fi buffs. This mob go all out for costume parties and I didn't bother the first time I went and felt like an overdressed lady at a nudist convention. Suggestions were flying about, StarWars was big and someone suggested that with my hair I'd be great as Princess Leia. I'm thinking more along the lines of Jabba the Hut and wondering where I could buy a tiny Princess Leia on a chain to hang round my wrist.
By Monday night, I'm vowing never to go anywhere again but got a terrific idea for a costume. I can do this, I can go to this party even if it's the day we bury her. I get to Southland, still yes/no-ing and wander into Lincraft and there was the great omen that said "Cinders, you will go to the Ball". Beautiful sky blue gauze printed all over with golden stars (very Barbara Cartland) and just what I had in mind. The jewellery shop had a sale, blue and white crystal bracelets. OMG, a star tiara is born. I haven't had an excuse for making a tiara for years. The gold sandals I already have. The Oroton ritzy-ditzy necklace with the pearls and diamonds will get an outing. I'm half-way there I tell you.
So dear readers, what am I going as? Give up, too subtle. Let me give you a clue.
"Once upon a time, in a GALAXY far far away"
I'm too small to be a Universe, too large to be a constellation but a GALAXY is just right.
Now let's hope the scrap of paper I wrote my email address on isn't sucked into a black hole and my galatic presence forgets to be invited.
I'm still in the dark hole from the weekend but it's getting shallow and light is beginning to shine from the outside in.
I was invited to an anniversary party on Sunday. The theme is science fiction since we're all sci-fi buffs. This mob go all out for costume parties and I didn't bother the first time I went and felt like an overdressed lady at a nudist convention. Suggestions were flying about, StarWars was big and someone suggested that with my hair I'd be great as Princess Leia. I'm thinking more along the lines of Jabba the Hut and wondering where I could buy a tiny Princess Leia on a chain to hang round my wrist.
By Monday night, I'm vowing never to go anywhere again but got a terrific idea for a costume. I can do this, I can go to this party even if it's the day we bury her. I get to Southland, still yes/no-ing and wander into Lincraft and there was the great omen that said "Cinders, you will go to the Ball". Beautiful sky blue gauze printed all over with golden stars (very Barbara Cartland) and just what I had in mind. The jewellery shop had a sale, blue and white crystal bracelets. OMG, a star tiara is born. I haven't had an excuse for making a tiara for years. The gold sandals I already have. The Oroton ritzy-ditzy necklace with the pearls and diamonds will get an outing. I'm half-way there I tell you.
So dear readers, what am I going as? Give up, too subtle. Let me give you a clue.
"Once upon a time, in a GALAXY far far away"
I'm too small to be a Universe, too large to be a constellation but a GALAXY is just right.
Now let's hope the scrap of paper I wrote my email address on isn't sucked into a black hole and my galatic presence forgets to be invited.
Wednesday, October 22, 2008
EMERGING FROM COCCOON
I'm not quite back on an even level but the brain is slowly beginning to emerge from its hiding place. Rh was right on the button as a nervous collapse wasn't far away by Monday night.
I paid for my few hours of freedom on Sunday. I wanted to stay longer but I can feel that woman in my brain, I can feel the eyes boring into the back of my head. My sister says it's because I let her in there but it's empathy, sixth sense, the ties that bind, whatever, I feel the vibes.
So two days of getting things to right and she's still arguing with me that what happened has never happened before and shouldn't I be getting the doctor.
It's happened numerous times but not for the last few years which is why I missed the early signals. Hindsight is great. I should have twigged a week ago but what can I do when the woman can't articulate exactly what is wrong or where pain is. She can tell me a highly coloured version of what she thinks caused the problem and now I can't get that version out of her skull.
And now the Bouvier sisters are coming to visit tomorrow. I'm sure they've already heard the harrowing account of Sunday's event and probably about me denying her a doctor's visit. I've warned my sister, she'll warn the BrickOutHouse to get the girlfriend out of the way and he won't come home.
They can all go to Hell. I won't be there to be maid for the afternoon, it's shopping day and somebody better have chocolate on special.
I paid for my few hours of freedom on Sunday. I wanted to stay longer but I can feel that woman in my brain, I can feel the eyes boring into the back of my head. My sister says it's because I let her in there but it's empathy, sixth sense, the ties that bind, whatever, I feel the vibes.
So two days of getting things to right and she's still arguing with me that what happened has never happened before and shouldn't I be getting the doctor.
It's happened numerous times but not for the last few years which is why I missed the early signals. Hindsight is great. I should have twigged a week ago but what can I do when the woman can't articulate exactly what is wrong or where pain is. She can tell me a highly coloured version of what she thinks caused the problem and now I can't get that version out of her skull.
And now the Bouvier sisters are coming to visit tomorrow. I'm sure they've already heard the harrowing account of Sunday's event and probably about me denying her a doctor's visit. I've warned my sister, she'll warn the BrickOutHouse to get the girlfriend out of the way and he won't come home.
They can all go to Hell. I won't be there to be maid for the afternoon, it's shopping day and somebody better have chocolate on special.
Monday, October 20, 2008
NO BLOGGING HERE
No blogging for a few days.
I might change my mind but at the moment, not.
The woman is driving me crazy and I will be busy banging my head on a wall.
I might change my mind but at the moment, not.
The woman is driving me crazy and I will be busy banging my head on a wall.
Friday, October 17, 2008
VERDURA, A MASTER
Fulco Santostefano della Cerda, Duke of Verdura (1898-1978) was a Sicilian aristocrat who became known as simply "Verdura". He start out by working with Coco Chanel as her textile designer but inspired by Byzantine jewellery, he created the multi-gemmed and asymmetrically patterned Maltese Cross brooches mounting them on the hinged cuff bracelets which she wore often.
She loved these so much she constantly reinterpreted the design. The cuffs above belonged to her.The Duchess of Windsor, Greta Garbo, Barbara Hutton and Doris Duke all collected his elegant jewellery.
He had a talent for creating innovative designs such as his signature piece, the Wrapped Heart brooch/pendent seen above in Jadeite. In the top photograph the Wrapped Heart is made of 62 cabochon rubies and 232 round diamonds set in 18K gold and platinum.
The design was originally created in 1941 as a Valentine's Day gift for the wife of one of Verdura's clients. The husband said, "I want to give her my heart - make something fantastic" and a classic was born.
If you'd like to see more of his creations go to the Verdura Gallery of the 2007 Exhibit at the Houston Museum of Natural Science. The Exhibit has another wrapped heart of golden sapphires which is beautiful.
THURSDAY PRETTIES
Pardon, while I wipe up the drool. This is droolworthy.
It's a natural pink, raspberry shade of pink, Nigerian Tourmaline of 8.64 carats, 11.7 x 12.4 mm.
The Nigerian source of tourmaline has been almost worked out so a stone of this size is rare.
It's set in white gold with 0.34 carat weight of diamonds to frame the cushion cut gem and accent the bail where the chain goes through. The diamonds are set in a semi bezel which echoes the cushion cut shape.
A white gold chain set with tiny diamonds would be elegant for night wearing but just a plain one for day. I wouldn't want to be ostentatious or anything.
You have to admit this would be a fine substitute for Burmese ruby and keep loot out of the Junta's pockets.
Tuesday, October 14, 2008
CLOUD TIME
These are Cirrus clouds and you can see why their popular name is Mare's Tail. Very high clouds over Glencoe in Scotland and photographed by Frank Howie.
We had them over Cheltenham today and halfway to the matriachal home I sat in the park and watched them. Two days I've spent at the home and it will take tomorrow to calm down then I have to pay her bills and shop on Thursday. It's been too insane to blog about it.
On Thursday South East Water is sending a plumber to see which half of the property has a blockage in the sewerage pipes. We sold the backyard nearly 20 years ago but the main sewerage connection is on the other half. I was surprised that SE Water was right on the ball and brought up the computer records for May 2006 to show where the last blockage was. The thing is now, they don't have their own plumbers but a company that will charge up to $169 to the household who owns the blocked pipes.
I've told them not to come in the morning when I'm not there or they will have one confused plumber being told what to do by one confused drain owner. I hope it is 'him down the back' because he concreted over the sewerage connection and put in three huge trees along the fence line. I don't know if they have to go into every toilet in the house or just check outside but I removed every empty toilet roll holder from the back one and I filled a large washing basket with them. The BrickOutHouse only has to walk a few steps to the bin but he never does, it must be a bloke thing.
Friday, October 10, 2008
WHY SO MUCH FUSS?
Two bills concerning the well-being of women have now been passed in the Victorian Parliament and why was there such a fuss about laws being dragged into the 21st Century?
GROUP A. Single women, lesbians, infertile single women who desperately want to bring a child into their lives and are prepared to go through the rigours of ART.
GROUP B. A clusterfuck of moral crusaders.
GROUP C. Women, who for various reasons, don't wish to procede with a pregnancy. Reasons include incest, rape, severe foetal abnormalities or accidental conception due to contraception failure.
Group B, the CFMC wanted to DENY Group A from having children they want because they find lesbians offensive and single women unsuitable without a protecting husband.
Group B, the CFMC wanted to FORCE Group C into having children they don't want.
So the bottom line is that a minority believes they have the moral right to dictate to a majority, Groups A and C, about which women can and cannot bear children unless it's in accordance with the archaic beliefs of Group B.
I sincerely hope this is the last battle we have to fight on these two issues.
GROUP A. Single women, lesbians, infertile single women who desperately want to bring a child into their lives and are prepared to go through the rigours of ART.
GROUP B. A clusterfuck of moral crusaders.
GROUP C. Women, who for various reasons, don't wish to procede with a pregnancy. Reasons include incest, rape, severe foetal abnormalities or accidental conception due to contraception failure.
Group B, the CFMC wanted to DENY Group A from having children they want because they find lesbians offensive and single women unsuitable without a protecting husband.
Group B, the CFMC wanted to FORCE Group C into having children they don't want.
So the bottom line is that a minority believes they have the moral right to dictate to a majority, Groups A and C, about which women can and cannot bear children unless it's in accordance with the archaic beliefs of Group B.
I sincerely hope this is the last battle we have to fight on these two issues.
IN THE 21ST CENTURY
The bill to de-criminalise abortion has now been passed in the Upper House.
John Brumby, who supported the legislation when it was passed in the lower house, spoke to reporters after the vote was passed 23-17 in the Legislative Council this morning.
"We'll now have in place in Victoria legislation that will take abortion out of the criminal code,'' Mr Brumby said.
"So I am pleased to see the result. It was a strong vote in the lower house, it's a comfortable majority in the upper house.''
Amendments to the bill are now being debated, before a third and final vote is held.
John Brumby, who supported the legislation when it was passed in the lower house, spoke to reporters after the vote was passed 23-17 in the Legislative Council this morning.
"We'll now have in place in Victoria legislation that will take abortion out of the criminal code,'' Mr Brumby said.
"So I am pleased to see the result. It was a strong vote in the lower house, it's a comfortable majority in the upper house.''
Amendments to the bill are now being debated, before a third and final vote is held.
Thursday, October 09, 2008
ONE HURDLE DOWN
From The Age newspaper today:
The lower house has voted 47 to 34 in support of the contentious Assisted Reproductive Treatment bill, which will now be scrutinised in the Upper House.
If passed by the Legislative Council the legislation will grant single and lesbian women access to reproductive treatment, including IVF.
Among those celebrating was Rainbow Families Council spokeswoman Felicity Marlowe, who has a two-month-old daughter Maude and lives in a same-sex relationship.
"What we've seen is a really sensible debate, unfortunately of course there are some people who have very diverse views about what a real family is or what constitutes good parenting but overall we've seen a really positive outcome," Ms Marlowe said.
"For families like mine that are same sex parented families it would mean better legal certainty for our children about who our parents are, better legal obligations for their non-birth parents and more rights bestowed upon them.
"What we'd be really wanting to see is that people understand that the spirit of this bill is that the rights and best interests of children are upheld and we believe that voting in favour of it in the upper house will ensure that our children are not second class citizens."
Congratulations to Felicity who has worked hard to make sure local Members of Parliament were emailed or visited by rainbow families.
The lower house has voted 47 to 34 in support of the contentious Assisted Reproductive Treatment bill, which will now be scrutinised in the Upper House.
If passed by the Legislative Council the legislation will grant single and lesbian women access to reproductive treatment, including IVF.
Among those celebrating was Rainbow Families Council spokeswoman Felicity Marlowe, who has a two-month-old daughter Maude and lives in a same-sex relationship.
"What we've seen is a really sensible debate, unfortunately of course there are some people who have very diverse views about what a real family is or what constitutes good parenting but overall we've seen a really positive outcome," Ms Marlowe said.
"For families like mine that are same sex parented families it would mean better legal certainty for our children about who our parents are, better legal obligations for their non-birth parents and more rights bestowed upon them.
"What we'd be really wanting to see is that people understand that the spirit of this bill is that the rights and best interests of children are upheld and we believe that voting in favour of it in the upper house will ensure that our children are not second class citizens."
Congratulations to Felicity who has worked hard to make sure local Members of Parliament were emailed or visited by rainbow families.
Wednesday, October 08, 2008
CONSCIENCE VOTE
Last night a conscience vote of lower house MPs backed the legislation - giving single women, lesbians and infertile couples greater access to fertility treatments - by 48 votes to 36.
Premier John Brumby outlined his support for the Bill saying the best interests of a child was the paramount consideration under the legislation.
"What underpins all of this is an understanding that we're really talking here about the quality of family life, the quality of family relationships determines the emotional, social and psychological outcomes for children not necessarily the family structure into which they have been born. And I think a key theme of this is that good parenting is about giving children unconditional love and that is certainly what I believe the Law Reform Commission was saying in its report." (Go Team Brumby)
The Victorian Law Reform Commission proposed changes after four years consultations.
Labor MPs Christine Campbell, George Seitz and Marlene Kairouz voted against with James Merlino, the Sports Minister saying that the bill turned children into commodities.
On the Opposition side, Ted Baillieu said, "Every child has got a father and mother and I think that ought to be the starting point." He said he was not making a judgement on same-sex couples who raised children.
Shadow attorney-general Robert Clark said the bill put the interests of parents well ahead of those of children. "In the past, if a child lost its mother, that would be regarded as a tragedy for that child...however, those tragedies, if this legislation is passed, would be occurring by a deliberate act," he said. (Is it just me or does that not make any sense)
Meet Miss C - commodity
Premier John Brumby outlined his support for the Bill saying the best interests of a child was the paramount consideration under the legislation.
"What underpins all of this is an understanding that we're really talking here about the quality of family life, the quality of family relationships determines the emotional, social and psychological outcomes for children not necessarily the family structure into which they have been born. And I think a key theme of this is that good parenting is about giving children unconditional love and that is certainly what I believe the Law Reform Commission was saying in its report." (Go Team Brumby)
The Victorian Law Reform Commission proposed changes after four years consultations.
Labor MPs Christine Campbell, George Seitz and Marlene Kairouz voted against with James Merlino, the Sports Minister saying that the bill turned children into commodities.
On the Opposition side, Ted Baillieu said, "Every child has got a father and mother and I think that ought to be the starting point." He said he was not making a judgement on same-sex couples who raised children.
Shadow attorney-general Robert Clark said the bill put the interests of parents well ahead of those of children. "In the past, if a child lost its mother, that would be regarded as a tragedy for that child...however, those tragedies, if this legislation is passed, would be occurring by a deliberate act," he said. (Is it just me or does that not make any sense)
Meet Miss C - commodity
Tuesday, October 07, 2008
I'M BUYING STAMPS THIS WEEK
This new stamp issue by artist Peter Trusler and paleontologist Pat Vickers-Rich shows six different species from Australian megafauna which roamed Gondwanaland. This was a supercontinent which existed for hundreds of millions of years and began to break up more than 100 million years ago.
Peter Trusler is an Honorary Research Associate in the School of Geosciences and principal in the Palaeontological Laboratory at Monash University. Professor Pat Vickers-Rich is Director of the Monash Science Centre.
All of the Megafauna went extinct approximately 50,000 years ago except for the Tasmanian Tiger which was still alive last century so the artist had to base his images on fossils and relics.
The Wildlife of Gondwana travelling exhibition which opened at Monash University's Science Centre today not only has giant versions of the stamps but 300 original and cast fossils as well as other images by Trusler.
Monday, October 06, 2008
SHE'S GOOD FOR A GIGGLE
You have to admit it, Posh is good value when you need a laugh. Those chicken legs on stilts are a riot. I think the secret is that there are little tiny wheels in the soles so she doesn't actually have to lift the shoes because I doubt she'd have the strength. She just glides along as one of her lads pulls her. I can't look too closely, they're making my knees hurt.While we're on shoes, I hate gladiator sandals. When I was a kidwholovedfashion there were two types of sandals, pretty ones with daisies punched in the leather and a strap across and there were roman sandals. They were brown, ugly, clunky and cheap. Guess which ones I wanted and guess which ones I didn't get. So gladiator sandals are bringing back childhood traumas which I thought I had forgotten.
They must be hell to undo when you're pissed.
THE EYES ARE YOUNG
The eye test was okay. A very minor difference from 2001 so I'm only up for one pair of frames and two sets of lens. If you keep something long enough, you'll use it and that goes for a pair of gold metal frames from 1976. They're just for reading and it saved me a heap of money.
The frames these days are so tiny it's like looking through a letter box slit. The glasses I wear for best were sunglasses and I made OPSM put clear lens in the frame. Stupids, I'm paying and I know what I want, big glasses so I have peripheral vision.
Two weeks and I'll have distance specs without the left lens falling out and reading glasses that I don't have to tape to my nose because the arms are at two different angles.
How hard is it to look and check when I tell them I have one ear higher than the other when they're trying to jam an arm where there's nothing to hold it?
My Seniors card hasn't arrived so I couldn't get a discount at the ice-cream parlor and to round off an annoying day, some sweet young thing rang and offered me a free hearing test, as though I was old.
The frames these days are so tiny it's like looking through a letter box slit. The glasses I wear for best were sunglasses and I made OPSM put clear lens in the frame. Stupids, I'm paying and I know what I want, big glasses so I have peripheral vision.
Two weeks and I'll have distance specs without the left lens falling out and reading glasses that I don't have to tape to my nose because the arms are at two different angles.
How hard is it to look and check when I tell them I have one ear higher than the other when they're trying to jam an arm where there's nothing to hold it?
My Seniors card hasn't arrived so I couldn't get a discount at the ice-cream parlor and to round off an annoying day, some sweet young thing rang and offered me a free hearing test, as though I was old.
Sunday, October 05, 2008
TIPS FOR DEALING WITH THE DEMENTED
Keep a diary.
Put everything in it.
So when she says she's never called you 'Fatso' you can give her date, time and place.
Insanity Central is very busy today.
Put everything in it.
So when she says she's never called you 'Fatso' you can give her date, time and place.
Insanity Central is very busy today.
Friday, October 03, 2008
I MISSED MY BLOG BIRTHDAY
Ahem, a senior's moment but only by one day.
COPPERWITCH FLIES IN
This will be thr first of my postings when I get past the acute blogger's block. (I think I might have managed to do that)
I have opinions on just about eveything but I'll be kind to you and keep most of them to myself. (I think I lied about this one)
I lean to the left politically, dislike discrimination and support Gay and Lesbian Rights. (Nothing's changed)
If you want sports news, I can't help you. The same with reality TV shows, I have enough drama in the backyard without watching Survivor somewhere else. (I think I still had three cats at this stage and mother was just about to go troppo)
I don't do drugs, drink, gamble or get laid which makes me stick my hand in the toaster some mornings to see if I'm alive. (I didn't specify prescription drugs, pokie machines, Bombay Sapphire and hadn't yet discovered the joys of Internet nekked blokes)
My mind has a tendency to ramble and fall out of my mouth without thinking. (Oh bloody hell, three years on and nothing has changed)
COPPERWITCH FLIES IN
This will be thr first of my postings when I get past the acute blogger's block. (I think I might have managed to do that)
I have opinions on just about eveything but I'll be kind to you and keep most of them to myself. (I think I lied about this one)
I lean to the left politically, dislike discrimination and support Gay and Lesbian Rights. (Nothing's changed)
If you want sports news, I can't help you. The same with reality TV shows, I have enough drama in the backyard without watching Survivor somewhere else. (I think I still had three cats at this stage and mother was just about to go troppo)
I don't do drugs, drink, gamble or get laid which makes me stick my hand in the toaster some mornings to see if I'm alive. (I didn't specify prescription drugs, pokie machines, Bombay Sapphire and hadn't yet discovered the joys of Internet nekked blokes)
My mind has a tendency to ramble and fall out of my mouth without thinking. (Oh bloody hell, three years on and nothing has changed)
Thursday, October 02, 2008
DEAR DIARY
Today I found out I haven't had my eyes tested since 2001.
They can't be too bad.
I can still see through four layers of clothes to the cute bloke underneath.
I love unwrapping presents.
As long as they're useful.
Cute blokes usually are.
I wonder why people say "You'll go blind".
I'll ask when I have my eyes tested next Monday.
They can't be too bad.
I can still see through four layers of clothes to the cute bloke underneath.
I love unwrapping presents.
As long as they're useful.
Cute blokes usually are.
I wonder why people say "You'll go blind".
I'll ask when I have my eyes tested next Monday.
THURSDAY PRETTY
Take a pinch of copper, throw in some iron, a smidgeon of manganese chromophore and a few million years of metamorphosis and Mother Nature produces something unique.
This magnificent, flawless multi-colour tourmaline from Mozambique weighs 59.40 carats and is going straight to the 'Want List'.
Wednesday, October 01, 2008
WORD OF THE DAY
MACROPHYTE
A term used to distinguish larger water plants from microscopic algae.
They may be floating or rooted.
I went out with a lot of macrophytes in my younger days.
A term used to distinguish larger water plants from microscopic algae.
They may be floating or rooted.
I went out with a lot of macrophytes in my younger days.
Tuesday, September 30, 2008
PROTOCOLS CAN WORK
It's spring in Antarctica and the ozone hole has already developed. Average temperatures over the area and controls on ozone depleting chemicals means the amount of ozone removed will be large but not record proportions.
The image above is of nacreous clouds at the Davis Base on September 1, 2008. These polar stratospheric clouds occur at 10 kms and higher above the surface of the earth. It's the particles in these clouds that initiate the chemical changes in the atmosphere that leads to the formation of the ozone hole.
In September 1987, the international treaty to protect earth's ozone layer was signed. The Montreal Protocol is a global agreement to limit the production and release of man-made substances which cause harm to the protective blanket of ozone in the stratosphere.
I posted another nacreous cloud in 2006.
Monday, September 29, 2008
MOTHERING MONDAY
There was a time when I would rush out of the house to get to mother's place early enough to help with the showering and cleaning and the cooking etc.
It's now more of a slow drag of the feet and a promise to myself that I can stop for coffee halfway. Of course I left in sunshine and got rained on after the coffee stop.
I did pick up bread and 2 litres of milk as per instructions. I made sure I had single dollars for the pharmacy delivery boy's tip because he also puts out the rubbish bins on Wednesday nights.
She was in the bathroom when I arrived. She was still there 45 minutes later and no, I didn't bother to enquire if she needn't help. I was busy making lunch. I was busy making up the shopping list for Thursday. I was busy totalling up the bills to pay on Thursday. I was busy bringing in the clothes from the dryer to fold up. I was busy drying myself off.
She went back to bed about 2.30 and went to sleep. I never leave while she's asleep, I make sure she knows I'm going otherwise she gets confused about whether I've been or not. So I walked home. That's 6kms today. I haven't done that for a while.
My sister rang mother to find out if I was still there. Mother said I wasn't but I had been sitting there all afternoon doing nothing.
A jury of daughters, if I could just be sure I'd get a jury of daughters.
It's now more of a slow drag of the feet and a promise to myself that I can stop for coffee halfway. Of course I left in sunshine and got rained on after the coffee stop.
I did pick up bread and 2 litres of milk as per instructions. I made sure I had single dollars for the pharmacy delivery boy's tip because he also puts out the rubbish bins on Wednesday nights.
She was in the bathroom when I arrived. She was still there 45 minutes later and no, I didn't bother to enquire if she needn't help. I was busy making lunch. I was busy making up the shopping list for Thursday. I was busy totalling up the bills to pay on Thursday. I was busy bringing in the clothes from the dryer to fold up. I was busy drying myself off.
She went back to bed about 2.30 and went to sleep. I never leave while she's asleep, I make sure she knows I'm going otherwise she gets confused about whether I've been or not. So I walked home. That's 6kms today. I haven't done that for a while.
My sister rang mother to find out if I was still there. Mother said I wasn't but I had been sitting there all afternoon doing nothing.
A jury of daughters, if I could just be sure I'd get a jury of daughters.
Saturday, September 27, 2008
EUREKA
60 species of Anopheles mosquitos can transmit malaria. There are four forms of Human Malaria each caused by a different species of parasite, the most dangerous being Plasmodium Falciparum.
During the incubation period of malaria, the protozoa grow within cells in the liver then invade the red blood cells. The parasite starts to consume the haemoglobin and enlarges until it fills the cell when it breaks out and invades another cell.
The parasite hides from the immune system by depositing one of 60 different proteins on the surface of infected red blood cells. This is only the start of the changes made to the cell by the parasite. The red blood cell has no nucleus and no transport proteins to move nutrients and other chemicals around so the parasite has to do the work. Another parasite protein transfers to the cell surface helping it stick to parts of the body which stops it circulating and being destroyed by the spleen.
In one of Nature's twists, the iron in the blood cell is toxic to the parasite so it has to convert the haem into a pigment, haemozoin which it stores in its stomach. If anti-malaria drugs could disrupt this process, the parasite would die. Monash researchers are using synchrotron light to see the chemical changes that convert haem to haemozoin inside the parasite.
At the Eureka Awards for 2008, Associate Professor Brian Cooke from Microbiology received a Science to Art Award, which recognises his studies of fatal malaria cases and a resulting image of the surface of a human red blood cell infected with a malaria parasite.
Associate Professor Cooke said, "I hope that my small contribution may one day make a big difference to millions of people burdened by unnecessary illness. Simple and effective communication of our research is paramount, particularly in the present era of new, sophisticated technologies and merging disciplines. Science through art and graphic visualisation is a tantalising way to capture all imaginations."
School of Physics scientific photographer Steven Morton, who came equal 2nd in last year's Eureka Awards, produced this image, Cellular Renovations. He manipulated and pseudo-coloured the image after the National University of Singapore provided the raw imaging data gained by atomic force microscopy.
The knob-like bumps are part of the renovations that the malaria parasite makes to the red blood cell after it moves in during infection. The NHMRC-funded work at Monash University aims to understand the molecular nature of these changes in red blood cells that make malaria so severe.
During the incubation period of malaria, the protozoa grow within cells in the liver then invade the red blood cells. The parasite starts to consume the haemoglobin and enlarges until it fills the cell when it breaks out and invades another cell.
The parasite hides from the immune system by depositing one of 60 different proteins on the surface of infected red blood cells. This is only the start of the changes made to the cell by the parasite. The red blood cell has no nucleus and no transport proteins to move nutrients and other chemicals around so the parasite has to do the work. Another parasite protein transfers to the cell surface helping it stick to parts of the body which stops it circulating and being destroyed by the spleen.
In one of Nature's twists, the iron in the blood cell is toxic to the parasite so it has to convert the haem into a pigment, haemozoin which it stores in its stomach. If anti-malaria drugs could disrupt this process, the parasite would die. Monash researchers are using synchrotron light to see the chemical changes that convert haem to haemozoin inside the parasite.
At the Eureka Awards for 2008, Associate Professor Brian Cooke from Microbiology received a Science to Art Award, which recognises his studies of fatal malaria cases and a resulting image of the surface of a human red blood cell infected with a malaria parasite.Associate Professor Cooke said, "I hope that my small contribution may one day make a big difference to millions of people burdened by unnecessary illness. Simple and effective communication of our research is paramount, particularly in the present era of new, sophisticated technologies and merging disciplines. Science through art and graphic visualisation is a tantalising way to capture all imaginations."
School of Physics scientific photographer Steven Morton, who came equal 2nd in last year's Eureka Awards, produced this image, Cellular Renovations. He manipulated and pseudo-coloured the image after the National University of Singapore provided the raw imaging data gained by atomic force microscopy.
The knob-like bumps are part of the renovations that the malaria parasite makes to the red blood cell after it moves in during infection. The NHMRC-funded work at Monash University aims to understand the molecular nature of these changes in red blood cells that make malaria so severe.
Friday, September 26, 2008
HAPPY BIRTHDAY
A very very Happy First Birthday
to
Miss Charlotte.
Your two Mums have done a
fantastic job of
raising a beautiful child.
SATISFACTION IS.....
.....beating the collection truck by one minute to a nice little desk chair I spotted around the corner.
Thursday, September 25, 2008
I HATE SHREK
I hate Shrek and the Shrek show in the centre court when I'm trying to have a quiet cup of coffee and my back is killing me and my feet are hurting and my knees are begging for mercy.
Snotty nosed little kids loved it though. I am way past loving small children.
I did buy the StarWars video and it has the new and old version, 2 disc set. Colour me happy.
I was wearing a dress which was one of my successes, everything about it worked and I have been wearing it for a loooooong time. I reached up to the top shelf in the supermarket and I glanced down to find said dress has not much left under the arm pit. Threadbare and showing skin. How embarassment.
Christmas decorations are in the shops. You'd think they'd wait until after the footy final and Halloween and Cup Day but there they are, shelves up to the ceiling. Be cunning, Lincraft drop their prices long before December 25 but Big W doesn't.
Snotty nosed little kids loved it though. I am way past loving small children.
I did buy the StarWars video and it has the new and old version, 2 disc set. Colour me happy.
I was wearing a dress which was one of my successes, everything about it worked and I have been wearing it for a loooooong time. I reached up to the top shelf in the supermarket and I glanced down to find said dress has not much left under the arm pit. Threadbare and showing skin. How embarassment.
Christmas decorations are in the shops. You'd think they'd wait until after the footy final and Halloween and Cup Day but there they are, shelves up to the ceiling. Be cunning, Lincraft drop their prices long before December 25 but Big W doesn't.
Wednesday, September 24, 2008
LIFE'S COMPLICATIONS
Life is complicated with many serious problems that need solutions.
That started well now watch it go rapidly into triviality.
'Journey to the Centre of the Earth' starts tomorrow.
JB HiFi have 'Star Wars' out on DVD but it's the untouched version first shown in theatres. The good one without all the wankery Lucas put in later because he could. This edition is for a limited time only and knowing JB that could mean two days.
Film and DVD cost the same.
My old copy (original) is showing its age and I shouldn't play it or I'll wreck the video.
See how complicated life is and that's without culling the shopping list to pay for whichever one I choose.
I'll let Kevvie play with the financials in New York. I won't worry him about this. I wonder if Malcolm has a spare $20 he's not using?
That started well now watch it go rapidly into triviality.
'Journey to the Centre of the Earth' starts tomorrow.
JB HiFi have 'Star Wars' out on DVD but it's the untouched version first shown in theatres. The good one without all the wankery Lucas put in later because he could. This edition is for a limited time only and knowing JB that could mean two days.
Film and DVD cost the same.
My old copy (original) is showing its age and I shouldn't play it or I'll wreck the video.
See how complicated life is and that's without culling the shopping list to pay for whichever one I choose.
I'll let Kevvie play with the financials in New York. I won't worry him about this. I wonder if Malcolm has a spare $20 he's not using?
HELLBOY 2
I have to admit I am a sword & scorcery, fantasy film nerd. I even liked 'BeastMaster' and 'Conan the Barbarian'. So cheap day at the movies found me watching Hellboy 2 and the Golden Army.
Story so so, special effects great, Ron Perlman fantastic as Hellboy.
Fashionwise I loved the red silk sash worn by the evil elf prince.
You'll never think about tooth fairies the same way again.
The seats at the Europa theatre were a bit snug and not as soft on the rear as Gold Class.
'Journey to the Centre of the Earth' starts tomorrow and I'm hoping for Gold Class as I have another upgrade courtesy of Magnum ice-creams which explains why the seat felt a bit snug in Europa class.
Hellboy fans don't miss this on the big screen.
Story so so, special effects great, Ron Perlman fantastic as Hellboy.
Fashionwise I loved the red silk sash worn by the evil elf prince.
You'll never think about tooth fairies the same way again.
The seats at the Europa theatre were a bit snug and not as soft on the rear as Gold Class.
'Journey to the Centre of the Earth' starts tomorrow and I'm hoping for Gold Class as I have another upgrade courtesy of Magnum ice-creams which explains why the seat felt a bit snug in Europa class.
Hellboy fans don't miss this on the big screen.
Monday, September 22, 2008
SPRING IN MELBOURNE
Only two weeks before daylight saving and I've still got one clock I didn't turn back.
I left home this morning in a north wind and warmth and came home tonight in freezing cold and soaking rain.
Spring means hard rubbish collection. I grabbed a nice little bentwood chair that just needs sanding and a coat of Estapol. The cars have been trawling all weekend so I was lucky to get that home.
My office chair caught a fatal case of metal fatigue so I put that out in its two pieces. The chair part went but the legs and expensive wheels are still there tonight. I tried to take the wheels off but no luck but they look good holding down three items that aren't mine. That's the best thing about HRC, the migration of objects from one end of the street to the other.
And it's Brownlow Medal night which nobody watches after the red carpet. I'm not a football fan but I did catch the last quarter of the Bulldogs and the Cats, good fun but enough for the year.
I left home this morning in a north wind and warmth and came home tonight in freezing cold and soaking rain.
Spring means hard rubbish collection. I grabbed a nice little bentwood chair that just needs sanding and a coat of Estapol. The cars have been trawling all weekend so I was lucky to get that home.
My office chair caught a fatal case of metal fatigue so I put that out in its two pieces. The chair part went but the legs and expensive wheels are still there tonight. I tried to take the wheels off but no luck but they look good holding down three items that aren't mine. That's the best thing about HRC, the migration of objects from one end of the street to the other.
And it's Brownlow Medal night which nobody watches after the red carpet. I'm not a football fan but I did catch the last quarter of the Bulldogs and the Cats, good fun but enough for the year.
Saturday, September 20, 2008
THE AFTER VIRUS VIRUS
I'm still tired. I have two days running around then the next day in bed. Please, I'm not complaining, bed is very nice when the sun is streaming in the window and I have books to read. It's just that even I'm beginning to notice washing piling up, dishes from other houses booking holidays in my kitchen for the peace and quiet and the chocolate stash has disappeared.
I'm also turning into one of those old ladies who shout at the ads on TV. It's the Ad Agency's job to make annoying ads so that we'll remember what they are but it doesn't mean I'm going to buy the products just because I remember them. It's about the only thing I remember these days.
Napisan is off the list until someone gives that repulsive kid the boot. Kids shouldn't be allowed in the laundry unless they're locked in and washing their own clothes. I'd have hit him with the Napisan after the first annoying question not that I would have done that to my own, I always threw whatever was to hand to give them a chance to dodge. Of course if they were looking the other way then all's fair in the mother/child war.
White King can go jump too. I use White King. I do not leap around the bathroom using the bottle as a substitute AK47 assault rifle. I do not laugh like a hyena on heat when killing algae in the cistern and what's more her bloody bathroom looks immaculate anyway.
Next on the list. Lynx! I have yet to find any cologne or aftershave that would turn a bloke into anything as luscious as chocolate. He doesn't even turn into goodlooking chocolate. I shouldn't complain about that ad really because it's obviously aimed at men who will buy crap-in-a-can if they think it will get them laid. Take a tip from me, leave the Lynx and buy the biggest box of chocolates you can find. You'll have more chance with that especially if you're coming to my house.
I'm also turning into one of those old ladies who shout at the ads on TV. It's the Ad Agency's job to make annoying ads so that we'll remember what they are but it doesn't mean I'm going to buy the products just because I remember them. It's about the only thing I remember these days.
Napisan is off the list until someone gives that repulsive kid the boot. Kids shouldn't be allowed in the laundry unless they're locked in and washing their own clothes. I'd have hit him with the Napisan after the first annoying question not that I would have done that to my own, I always threw whatever was to hand to give them a chance to dodge. Of course if they were looking the other way then all's fair in the mother/child war.
White King can go jump too. I use White King. I do not leap around the bathroom using the bottle as a substitute AK47 assault rifle. I do not laugh like a hyena on heat when killing algae in the cistern and what's more her bloody bathroom looks immaculate anyway.
Next on the list. Lynx! I have yet to find any cologne or aftershave that would turn a bloke into anything as luscious as chocolate. He doesn't even turn into goodlooking chocolate. I shouldn't complain about that ad really because it's obviously aimed at men who will buy crap-in-a-can if they think it will get them laid. Take a tip from me, leave the Lynx and buy the biggest box of chocolates you can find. You'll have more chance with that especially if you're coming to my house.
Thursday, September 18, 2008
THURSDAY PRETTY
This is a Rhodolite Garnet. It's a 16.98 carat, pear cut drop of lusciousness. It measures 17.5x14.7x9.98 mm and it's from Tanzania. We have Rhodolite Garnets mined in Australia and they are just as beautiful as this. I have one. *looks smug and waves hand*
Wednesday, September 17, 2008
BLOOD JADE
This is the Pharkant Gyi Hmaw jade mine which in 2000 was still using manual labour to remove mining debris.
This photo from the UKSYU website shows people going through the tailings of a mine in Kachin looking for anything of value. A landslide at the Hmawsizar mine killed at least 20 people. The region has frequent landslides and flooding due to the rivers being clogged by mining debris and deaths are not reported to the outside world.The Beijing Organizing Committee of the Games announced that the design for the medals would include jade from China's Quinghai province to show a part of Chinese culture. The Committee publicly stated that their officially licensed products were made with Quinghai jade not jadeite from Burma but most of the jade products in the market place are made from Burmese jade.
Burmese jadeite is a global business controlled by Burma's military regime. The regime has effectively consolidated military control over the entire gems industry by eliminating small and independent companies from mining and forcing all sales to go through national auctions held by government ministries in Rangoon.
Gems are now Burma's third largest export and provide the Generals with an important source of foreign currency. Much of this cash comes from China and none if any filters down to the Burmese people.
If you're buying overseas, always ask where the gem or jade comes from. We've all heard of 'blood diamonds' and now we can add 'blood jade' to the banned list.
SURPRISE LETTER
I had a surprise in the mail yesterday. The solicitor who handled my divorce is retiring and she returned all the documents including the land title which I'd forgotten all about.
When he pissed off with his blonde I dug my heels in and refused to sell the house. My solicitor said I probably would get 85 per cent of the sale price which wasn't going to do me any good if I had no where to go. Of course Mother said I could come to live with her. I was even more determined not to sell after that.
I proposed that we keep an asset that would appreciate and change the title from joint owners to Tenants in Common. That meant he could leave his half to whom-ever, as could I, but both of us had to die before the heirs got it. I was being fair, I had my home and he had half an asset.
The Blonde got into my Mother-in-Law's ear, telling her how vicious I was and how I was stealing his house. Fortunately M-i-L was polite enough to hear my side after the initial nasty words I copped. I couldn't understand the reaction, I'd already told her what I was going to do. It was after my solicitor told me that he had given me the house, free and clear, that I was put in the picture.
He never told me why and I never bothered to ask. I did have to give up all claims to any money he would receive later and even there I had information he didn't. Any money from his mother was a gift to him and would not figure in a settlement which only left his super and I'd already had a chunk of that, what he wasn't giving to his girlfriends.
So I had my home and the jungle setting he'd left it in. When you visit, be polite and don't ask why I have paintings hanging in strange places because they're usually hiding a hole in the door or wall where Mr. Elegant fell over pissed as a newt.
It was a real pleasure to put that land title with the house title and my divorce papers.
And what's more, he never sent a card for my birthday.
When he pissed off with his blonde I dug my heels in and refused to sell the house. My solicitor said I probably would get 85 per cent of the sale price which wasn't going to do me any good if I had no where to go. Of course Mother said I could come to live with her. I was even more determined not to sell after that.
I proposed that we keep an asset that would appreciate and change the title from joint owners to Tenants in Common. That meant he could leave his half to whom-ever, as could I, but both of us had to die before the heirs got it. I was being fair, I had my home and he had half an asset.
The Blonde got into my Mother-in-Law's ear, telling her how vicious I was and how I was stealing his house. Fortunately M-i-L was polite enough to hear my side after the initial nasty words I copped. I couldn't understand the reaction, I'd already told her what I was going to do. It was after my solicitor told me that he had given me the house, free and clear, that I was put in the picture.
He never told me why and I never bothered to ask. I did have to give up all claims to any money he would receive later and even there I had information he didn't. Any money from his mother was a gift to him and would not figure in a settlement which only left his super and I'd already had a chunk of that, what he wasn't giving to his girlfriends.
So I had my home and the jungle setting he'd left it in. When you visit, be polite and don't ask why I have paintings hanging in strange places because they're usually hiding a hole in the door or wall where Mr. Elegant fell over pissed as a newt.
It was a real pleasure to put that land title with the house title and my divorce papers.
And what's more, he never sent a card for my birthday.
Tuesday, September 16, 2008
BASIL FAWLTY REIGNS
After walking to mother's (small m for murder) and getting rained on (I knew I would) it turned into another one of those days where nothing went right.
The big chimes nearly cracked the front window. Chairs, table and bucket ended up in the yard. My little glass lanterns went but only one had the glass broken.
Then the half-flush toilet decided to have delusions of grandeur and turn into Niagara Falls. Full flush turned the water off but not the half. After giving it a good thrashing, ala Basil, it still flowed and flowed.
There are times when one does stand and feel like an idiot. When one takes off the lid of the cistern and nothing..... I mean what do you do with a cistern, besides swearing at it and asking it what's wrong.
A bit of a poke provoked Niagara again. Poking the other end brought on bubbles and a gurgle.
So I looked a bit further in. Memo to self, never, never do that again. There's an ecosystem in the cistern. I have enough trouble cleaning the bowl. Who cleans the cistern?
So look upon me, destroyer of worlds inhabited by strange little algae things. Half a bottle of White King, the cleaning woman's version of Napalm and the cistern should be right. Should be, because I'm not game to look.
The big chimes nearly cracked the front window. Chairs, table and bucket ended up in the yard. My little glass lanterns went but only one had the glass broken.
Then the half-flush toilet decided to have delusions of grandeur and turn into Niagara Falls. Full flush turned the water off but not the half. After giving it a good thrashing, ala Basil, it still flowed and flowed.
There are times when one does stand and feel like an idiot. When one takes off the lid of the cistern and nothing..... I mean what do you do with a cistern, besides swearing at it and asking it what's wrong.
A bit of a poke provoked Niagara again. Poking the other end brought on bubbles and a gurgle.
So I looked a bit further in. Memo to self, never, never do that again. There's an ecosystem in the cistern. I have enough trouble cleaning the bowl. Who cleans the cistern?
So look upon me, destroyer of worlds inhabited by strange little algae things. Half a bottle of White King, the cleaning woman's version of Napalm and the cistern should be right. Should be, because I'm not game to look.
Sunday, September 14, 2008
CREEPS!
I wasn't going to go into the debate about decriminalising abortion which will move to the upper house on October 7 but these so-called pro-life groups have really got on my wick.
The Right to Life Australia, Salt Shakers church, Coalition against the Decriminalisation of Abortion, the Catholic church, the Tell the Truth Coalition and the Coalition for the Prosecution of Prenatal Child Killers are waging a disgraceful campaign of intimidation. Cabinet Minister Jacinta Allan was sent a box of animal organs so they don't think animals have a right to life.
The Tell the Truth group has spent $70,000 to promote their self rightous views. $70,000 would fund an orphanage in Cambodia, feed children, already living, in refugee camps in Darfur, fund schools in Aceh and help stop child sex slaves in S.E. Asia.
How many of these do-gooders camped outside detention centres to protest about the children locked away? How many children have they helped by donating to Care Australia? How many disabled children, overseas and in this country, have they sponsored or adopted?
They're a bunch of filthy hypocrites always banging on about the sanctity of the unborn child but never protesting about the wars that are killing children already born. And what pisses me off most, the men protesting. They don't have wombs, they can't bear children so why are they telling women what they can and can't do? Of course with their twisted logic, I wonder they haven't wanted an amendment to make lesbians have mandatory abortions since they're an abomination to the Lord and shouldn't be allowed to have families. Creeps.
The Right to Life Australia, Salt Shakers church, Coalition against the Decriminalisation of Abortion, the Catholic church, the Tell the Truth Coalition and the Coalition for the Prosecution of Prenatal Child Killers are waging a disgraceful campaign of intimidation. Cabinet Minister Jacinta Allan was sent a box of animal organs so they don't think animals have a right to life.
The Tell the Truth group has spent $70,000 to promote their self rightous views. $70,000 would fund an orphanage in Cambodia, feed children, already living, in refugee camps in Darfur, fund schools in Aceh and help stop child sex slaves in S.E. Asia.
How many of these do-gooders camped outside detention centres to protest about the children locked away? How many children have they helped by donating to Care Australia? How many disabled children, overseas and in this country, have they sponsored or adopted?
They're a bunch of filthy hypocrites always banging on about the sanctity of the unborn child but never protesting about the wars that are killing children already born. And what pisses me off most, the men protesting. They don't have wombs, they can't bear children so why are they telling women what they can and can't do? Of course with their twisted logic, I wonder they haven't wanted an amendment to make lesbians have mandatory abortions since they're an abomination to the Lord and shouldn't be allowed to have families. Creeps.
THE NEVERENDING PILL SAGA
It's a nice spring day outside, the breeze is a bit chilly but nice for walking. Tomorrow is not going to be nice, windy and cold with rain and I have to walk in it.
I've got to sort out the pills again. The morphine has been upped another 20 whatevers but instead of with the morning or evening pills, it's in the middle of the webster pack. This has caused massive confusion.
She can't get it straight that she isn't getting a new medication which is making her ill, causing confusion and stopping her from turning on the DVD player.
It confused her into taking Monday and Tuesday's pills on Thursday and Friday. That's what happens when you turn the pack upside down instead of back to front and it's all due to the new medication. She didn't take Friday night's medication at all because the new medication made her go to sleep early.
So I'm off to the pharmacy to find out why the dumb arse doctor asked for it to be this way. I'll get it put with the morning pills which is when she has the most pain. Then I have to pick up the 'you know' pills she's nearly out of and that's another 15 minutes of my life I won't get back. I think I was yelling again, something about not being a mind reader.
Hopefully it will only take a week to get back to normal, near normal, almost normal or anything approaching normal.
I've got to sort out the pills again. The morphine has been upped another 20 whatevers but instead of with the morning or evening pills, it's in the middle of the webster pack. This has caused massive confusion.
She can't get it straight that she isn't getting a new medication which is making her ill, causing confusion and stopping her from turning on the DVD player.
It confused her into taking Monday and Tuesday's pills on Thursday and Friday. That's what happens when you turn the pack upside down instead of back to front and it's all due to the new medication. She didn't take Friday night's medication at all because the new medication made her go to sleep early.
So I'm off to the pharmacy to find out why the dumb arse doctor asked for it to be this way. I'll get it put with the morning pills which is when she has the most pain. Then I have to pick up the 'you know' pills she's nearly out of and that's another 15 minutes of my life I won't get back. I think I was yelling again, something about not being a mind reader.
Hopefully it will only take a week to get back to normal, near normal, almost normal or anything approaching normal.
Friday, September 12, 2008
TO THE MOVIES
I had my Gold Class upgrade code and I was first in line to see 'The Mummy and the Dragon Emperor's Tomb'. Brilliant entertainment and I think it beat Indiana especially in the special effects department. John Hannah stole every scene but then he does in every 'Mummy' movie. The humour was subtle. Great escapism for a couple of hours. I just wish they hadn't kept saying 'mummy' through the movie, it made me remember what I was there to forget.
Next week, Hellboy2 and how stupid is it that, at my age, I'm reduced to sneaking off to see a film.
Daniel Craig just might tempt me back to see a James Bond film.
I'm still shitty on Warner Bros for not screening Harry Potter in November. Their story is that due to the writer's strike they haven't enough quality films for summer release. The HP forums reckon it's because Daniel Radcliffe is starring on Broadway and WB didn't want the nude scene in Equus (?) crossing over to The Half-Blood Prince movie. Pre-viewers of the film have said it's stuck very close to the book and the visit to the cavern is a great scene. I feel like Warner's have stolen Christmas. A dragon pox on them.
Next week, Hellboy2 and how stupid is it that, at my age, I'm reduced to sneaking off to see a film.
Daniel Craig just might tempt me back to see a James Bond film.
I'm still shitty on Warner Bros for not screening Harry Potter in November. Their story is that due to the writer's strike they haven't enough quality films for summer release. The HP forums reckon it's because Daniel Radcliffe is starring on Broadway and WB didn't want the nude scene in Equus (?) crossing over to The Half-Blood Prince movie. Pre-viewers of the film have said it's stuck very close to the book and the visit to the cavern is a great scene. I feel like Warner's have stolen Christmas. A dragon pox on them.
Wednesday, September 10, 2008
I THINK I'LL GET SICK AGAIN
Well it would be a good move since 'Insanity Central' is gearing up again.
I walked over on Monday, insane move, since I hadn't been out of bed for nearly a week but I had to check the bills and pay the Mastercard.
I was there one hour and wanted to cut myself with a sharp instrument.
Yesterday, the morning phone call was loonier than usual but that could have been me. I'm out of the habit of being woken at 7.15 with,
Mother "Hello, what time is it - answer - I have to go for a piddle".
An hour later at 8.15 I get the second call,
Mother"What time is it?" I look at the clock and realised I've already told her 8.15 at 7.15 out of habit.
Me "You have a clock."
Mother "Yes, but I'm not sure what day it is".
This morning at 8.15, (check both clocks in the bedroom) another "What day is it?"
Me "It's Wednesday, cleaning lady day and if I find out you got up to clean up before the cleaning lady I'll kill you."
Mother "I haven't got any bread."
Me "You didn't have bread on Monday and it's Wednesday. What are you waiting for, the Bread Fairy?"
A long diatribe about the irresponsibility of The BrickOuthouse since he's had a girlfriend follows. It's her fault there's no bread because she doesn't let him get it. I believe there was a lot of screaming after this but I can't be sure.
Phone call at 10 a.m from BrickOutHouse, "Is there money in the bank?" "Is there anything wrong with the ATM card? Has the number been changed?"
Me "Plenty, no, why?"
Mother has mixed up paydays and thinks she's broke until Thursday.
Me "Buy two of f'ing everything and f'ing put one of f'ing everthing in the f'ing freezer!!!!"
BOH "I can't I'm on my way to work, I'll do it later."
Three days I've been back on the job. I have a headache. I lost nearly 6kgs in weight over the past five weeks and the desire to annihilate several Magnum ice-creams and the biggest bag of crisps is creeping up on me. My resolution not to get sucked back into this nightmare is gurgling its way down the nearest toilet.
Don't let anyone ever tell you that swearing doesn't solve anything, it bloody well fucking does.
I walked over on Monday, insane move, since I hadn't been out of bed for nearly a week but I had to check the bills and pay the Mastercard.
I was there one hour and wanted to cut myself with a sharp instrument.
Yesterday, the morning phone call was loonier than usual but that could have been me. I'm out of the habit of being woken at 7.15 with,
Mother "Hello, what time is it - answer - I have to go for a piddle".
An hour later at 8.15 I get the second call,
Mother"What time is it?" I look at the clock and realised I've already told her 8.15 at 7.15 out of habit.
Me "You have a clock."
Mother "Yes, but I'm not sure what day it is".
This morning at 8.15, (check both clocks in the bedroom) another "What day is it?"
Me "It's Wednesday, cleaning lady day and if I find out you got up to clean up before the cleaning lady I'll kill you."
Mother "I haven't got any bread."
Me "You didn't have bread on Monday and it's Wednesday. What are you waiting for, the Bread Fairy?"
A long diatribe about the irresponsibility of The BrickOuthouse since he's had a girlfriend follows. It's her fault there's no bread because she doesn't let him get it. I believe there was a lot of screaming after this but I can't be sure.
Phone call at 10 a.m from BrickOutHouse, "Is there money in the bank?" "Is there anything wrong with the ATM card? Has the number been changed?"
Me "Plenty, no, why?"
Mother has mixed up paydays and thinks she's broke until Thursday.
Me "Buy two of f'ing everything and f'ing put one of f'ing everthing in the f'ing freezer!!!!"
BOH "I can't I'm on my way to work, I'll do it later."
Three days I've been back on the job. I have a headache. I lost nearly 6kgs in weight over the past five weeks and the desire to annihilate several Magnum ice-creams and the biggest bag of crisps is creeping up on me. My resolution not to get sucked back into this nightmare is gurgling its way down the nearest toilet.
Don't let anyone ever tell you that swearing doesn't solve anything, it bloody well fucking does.
Tuesday, September 09, 2008
PRETTY
I thought I might have something intelligent knocking around in the drafts but not a thing for my brain to feed on so I tried my photo file to find this.
That's a single black Tourmaline needle in quartz. The precision cutting positioned the needle at the culet (pointy end) and extending perpendicular to the table so the tourmaline is reflected in a kaleidoscope-like effect.
It was photographed by Wimon Manorotkul who really knows her business.
Friday, September 05, 2008
SEPTEMBER'S MORE OF THE SAME
The virus that was having such fun chewing up my lung got lonely so it invited a friend in to chew up my kidneys.
The pain I thought was a torn muscle from coughing and which I let go for 6 days before seeing a doctor was much more serious.
Apparently the falling out of the chair bit could have been passing out.
Temperatures above 38 degrees are fun, what with the hallucinations and vivid dreams not to mention being woken up by my name being called by nobody there.
Did I mention the pain? Almost gone now but I can't sit up for long. More worrying, I don't want to eat.
Jeebus but I've been crook. Still organising Mother from flat on my back.
The pain I thought was a torn muscle from coughing and which I let go for 6 days before seeing a doctor was much more serious.
Apparently the falling out of the chair bit could have been passing out.
Temperatures above 38 degrees are fun, what with the hallucinations and vivid dreams not to mention being woken up by my name being called by nobody there.
Did I mention the pain? Almost gone now but I can't sit up for long. More worrying, I don't want to eat.
Jeebus but I've been crook. Still organising Mother from flat on my back.
Monday, September 01, 2008
I PASSED A MILESTONE
No doubt MiLords Sedgwick and Hughes will be over to play havoc with that heading.
While I was sick I managed to miss my 800th blog post being posted. I hope it was something intelligent.
Spring in Melbourne is wonderful, we've had 4 types of weather today. I managed to get some food in and pasta sauce is on the go. I found over the last four weeks that it's no good making soup out of nourishing fresh things when all your stomach wants is plain old Heinz Big Red Tomato soup with toast and cheese.
Things to watch out for when ill.
Don't doze off in the chair without a safety belt. I'm ashamed to admit I did just that yesterday and fell flat on my face. I did a lot of damage to the Sunday papers but my glasses bounced.
Don't sit up in bed, in the middle of the night, with the doona wrapped round, after a coughing fit, when you're exhausted. You'll drift off to sleep because you're exhausted and then you'll wake up when your tongue falls out of your open mouth and you bite it.
Don't say I didn't warn you.
While I was sick I managed to miss my 800th blog post being posted. I hope it was something intelligent.
Spring in Melbourne is wonderful, we've had 4 types of weather today. I managed to get some food in and pasta sauce is on the go. I found over the last four weeks that it's no good making soup out of nourishing fresh things when all your stomach wants is plain old Heinz Big Red Tomato soup with toast and cheese.
Things to watch out for when ill.
Don't doze off in the chair without a safety belt. I'm ashamed to admit I did just that yesterday and fell flat on my face. I did a lot of damage to the Sunday papers but my glasses bounced.
Don't sit up in bed, in the middle of the night, with the doona wrapped round, after a coughing fit, when you're exhausted. You'll drift off to sleep because you're exhausted and then you'll wake up when your tongue falls out of your open mouth and you bite it.
Don't say I didn't warn you.
Sunday, August 31, 2008
GOODBYE AUGUST
Spring tomorrow. Goodbye to 31 days of absolute shite involving physical and mental disintegration.
I had to severely slap myself around last night and acknowledge that sometimes, medication is neccessary, very much needed and should be taken without guilt. So I've upped the mind and body equalizers until I get to level ground above this pit of blackness.
I cannot help anybody else. I can't equate their problems with mine and think mine are not as bad and I should be grateful. I'm in trouble, me *slap* so start with the basics, medication and stop feeling guilty that I have to give in and take it.
Constant physical and mental pain shortcircuits everything in most people. Sometimes it doesn't but with me, I tend to be waving okay with one hand and digging myself into the black pit with the other. I find it impossible to talk about it to anyone and yet I will help others without a second thought.
Blame my mother, I do. I've shut down emotions so tightly so that I can deal with her and I don't think I'll ever open up again. Besides it's no good raging at her, she forgets about it after an hour or so but I'm left with the self-recriminations of losing control. My sister deals with it better, she walks out and never thinks about it again. I'm made of weaker stuff.
Thank you Great Maker for Codeine, anxiety pills and muscle relaxants. I'm taking all of them until my glass becomes half full again.
Just to make sure I had a good dose of the irrits. A mother and daughter have shed 140kgs in 16 months. The daughter weighed 166kg. and now weighs 76kgs. She took Celebrity Slim diet shakes for breakfast and dinner, with a cooked lunch including lean meat, fish and vegetables and had a 30 minute walk each day. They said it was easier to lose weight together.
Here's the good bit, Melody's previous diet included up to two blocks of chocolate and a packet of Tim Tams each day. My initial reaction was anyone could lose if they dropped that kind of diet, second reaction was several four letter words because it wasn't me, third reaction was sliding down into the pit again but good luck to both of them if they hold on to those bodies they've gained.
I hate Tim Tams, I don't like chocolate biscuits at all, see there's a silver lining everywhere.
I had to severely slap myself around last night and acknowledge that sometimes, medication is neccessary, very much needed and should be taken without guilt. So I've upped the mind and body equalizers until I get to level ground above this pit of blackness.
I cannot help anybody else. I can't equate their problems with mine and think mine are not as bad and I should be grateful. I'm in trouble, me *slap* so start with the basics, medication and stop feeling guilty that I have to give in and take it.
Constant physical and mental pain shortcircuits everything in most people. Sometimes it doesn't but with me, I tend to be waving okay with one hand and digging myself into the black pit with the other. I find it impossible to talk about it to anyone and yet I will help others without a second thought.
Blame my mother, I do. I've shut down emotions so tightly so that I can deal with her and I don't think I'll ever open up again. Besides it's no good raging at her, she forgets about it after an hour or so but I'm left with the self-recriminations of losing control. My sister deals with it better, she walks out and never thinks about it again. I'm made of weaker stuff.
Thank you Great Maker for Codeine, anxiety pills and muscle relaxants. I'm taking all of them until my glass becomes half full again.
Just to make sure I had a good dose of the irrits. A mother and daughter have shed 140kgs in 16 months. The daughter weighed 166kg. and now weighs 76kgs. She took Celebrity Slim diet shakes for breakfast and dinner, with a cooked lunch including lean meat, fish and vegetables and had a 30 minute walk each day. They said it was easier to lose weight together.
Here's the good bit, Melody's previous diet included up to two blocks of chocolate and a packet of Tim Tams each day. My initial reaction was anyone could lose if they dropped that kind of diet, second reaction was several four letter words because it wasn't me, third reaction was sliding down into the pit again but good luck to both of them if they hold on to those bodies they've gained.
I hate Tim Tams, I don't like chocolate biscuits at all, see there's a silver lining everywhere.
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
THAT WAS A BIT CLOSE
I'm used to saying to people on the phone "Hang on while the plane flies through the lounge room" but today it was really too close.
A kilometre as the crow flies and I did hear both planes go overhead.
I didn't know anything else until my sister rang to tell me one of the nurses saw it come down as she was on her way to work.
Considering how long the airport has been there, there have been few really bad accidents. This one was a freak with two planes so close that one tipped the wing of the other.
It was very close to the school though and witnesses said the pilot tried to get away from it.
A kilometre as the crow flies and I did hear both planes go overhead.
I didn't know anything else until my sister rang to tell me one of the nurses saw it come down as she was on her way to work.
Considering how long the airport has been there, there have been few really bad accidents. This one was a freak with two planes so close that one tipped the wing of the other.
It was very close to the school though and witnesses said the pilot tried to get away from it.
Tuesday, August 26, 2008
PERIDOT FOR AUGUST
Peridot comes from the Arabic word "faridat" meaning gem or from the French word "peritot" which means unclear due to the cloudiness of the inclusions in large stones.
The depth of colour depends upon the amount of iron present in the stone which is composed of two minerals, Fayalite (iron rich) and Fosterite (magnesium rich).
It has a hardness of 6.5 to 7 and the most desirable colour being a sparkling vivid green as shown in the faceted stone of this ring.
Peridot is the birthstone for August and the Zodiac stone for the constellation Libra. Legend has it as the favourite gemstone of Cleopatra.
Peridot is the gem variety of the mineral Olivine formed by volcanic activity. Tiny crystals are found in the black volcanic sands of Hawaii and in the extinct volcanoes of Victoria's Western District.
An unusual source of Peridot is the iron-nickel meteorites called Pallasites.
Myanmar, Pakistan and Egypt produce the best quality gems but they're found all over the world. Peridot has been mined as a gemstone for an estimated four thousand years and is mentioned in the Bible under the Hebrew name of Pitdah.
Ancient Egyptians called them the gem of the Sun and the priests drank from cups made of peridot believing it drew them closer to Isis, the Goddess of Nature. They also wore it as a talisman to protect against infection and evil.
While it stands alone in its beauty, it's also enhanced by complementary colours as in this necklace of cat's eye Kunzite, faceted Vesuvianite, pink Sapphires, faceted Peridot, faceted Rhodolite garnets and pink Keshi Pearls.
PERIDOT LORE
It's considered protective against evil and when set in gold, especially helpful against night terrors.
It was ground to powder and used as a remedy for asthma.
It brings friendship, prevents envy and is purported to lift depression.
It sources divine inspiration and signifies strength and happiness in both individuals and relationships.
It enhances the efficacy of medication and improves speech.
The depth of colour depends upon the amount of iron present in the stone which is composed of two minerals, Fayalite (iron rich) and Fosterite (magnesium rich).
It has a hardness of 6.5 to 7 and the most desirable colour being a sparkling vivid green as shown in the faceted stone of this ring.
Peridot is the birthstone for August and the Zodiac stone for the constellation Libra. Legend has it as the favourite gemstone of Cleopatra.Peridot is the gem variety of the mineral Olivine formed by volcanic activity. Tiny crystals are found in the black volcanic sands of Hawaii and in the extinct volcanoes of Victoria's Western District.
An unusual source of Peridot is the iron-nickel meteorites called Pallasites.
Myanmar, Pakistan and Egypt produce the best quality gems but they're found all over the world. Peridot has been mined as a gemstone for an estimated four thousand years and is mentioned in the Bible under the Hebrew name of Pitdah.
Ancient Egyptians called them the gem of the Sun and the priests drank from cups made of peridot believing it drew them closer to Isis, the Goddess of Nature. They also wore it as a talisman to protect against infection and evil.
While it stands alone in its beauty, it's also enhanced by complementary colours as in this necklace of cat's eye Kunzite, faceted Vesuvianite, pink Sapphires, faceted Peridot, faceted Rhodolite garnets and pink Keshi Pearls.The silver bracelet by Stephen Dweck has Peridot, pearls, drusy, smoky Topaz and faceted smoky Topaz.
PERIDOT LORE
It's considered protective against evil and when set in gold, especially helpful against night terrors.
It was ground to powder and used as a remedy for asthma.
It brings friendship, prevents envy and is purported to lift depression.
It sources divine inspiration and signifies strength and happiness in both individuals and relationships.
It enhances the efficacy of medication and improves speech.
Monday, August 25, 2008
STILL LIFE
I'm a bit late with the birthstone for August which is Peridot and this isn't it but I loved the beauty of it and the way it was photographed.
It's Rhodochrosite, only 3.5 centimetres tall and looks like a pink blossom.
It's from the Wolf Mine, Betzdorf, Seigerland, Germany and was photographed by Wimon Manorotkul.
CLOUDS OF GLORY
There's a lot happening in this MODIS image from NASA's Aqua satellite.The ring shaped, rainbow-like glory in the centre is caused by the scattering of sunlight by a cloud made of water droplets that are all roughly the same size. It always appears in the spot directly opposite the Sun from the perspective of the viewer. It can appear on mountains and the giant shadow of the photographer is seen in the centre, the anti-solar point. In this image the Aqua satellite is too far away to cast a shadow.
In the upper right are phenomenon known as Von Karman Vortices. These appear downwind of islands tht perturb the flow of air like a boulder creates an eddy downstream in a river. This image was taken on May 20, 2008, over the Pacific Ocean.
Sunday, August 24, 2008
STILL VIRUSING
I'm still not sleeping well so I've been staying in the warm in front of the TV to the wee small hours.
I don't know what I'd do without a remote control, going from Channel 7 to Star Wars to SBS.
There was a bit of a snarky item in the Age this morning about two Olympic sports:
"Rhythmic gymnastics. The dry-land equivalent of synchronised swimming and just as silly......."
"Men's handball. A sport created by people who couldn't make the basketball or soccer team and played by countries who aren't very good at anything else......"
I don't see the difference between handball and beach volleyball except maybe more clothes but it still takes skill and this is coming from someone who's lucky to catch a cold. (I was ambushed by this virus, I didn't catch it)
The Rhythmic gymnastics which I landed on during my late night channel surfing was a joy. Maybe the heats weren't as good, I didn't see them just the finalists with the twirling ribbons. I can barely walk and chew gum at the same time so the idea of twirling a long silk ribbon and twirling a body with graceful moves without falling over doesn't seem to be silly just really difficult plus.
I'll be glad when it's all over. I'm sick of bursting into tears everytime the green and gold gets a medal and I did last night at the diving. I don't think I took a breath during M's dive and I loved the look on his face and his tears when he saw the score.
I'm not a sports fan so I'm blaming all this emotionality on this stupid virus. The bugs are going for a gold medal in endurance body destruction.
I don't know what I'd do without a remote control, going from Channel 7 to Star Wars to SBS.
There was a bit of a snarky item in the Age this morning about two Olympic sports:
"Rhythmic gymnastics. The dry-land equivalent of synchronised swimming and just as silly......."
"Men's handball. A sport created by people who couldn't make the basketball or soccer team and played by countries who aren't very good at anything else......"
I don't see the difference between handball and beach volleyball except maybe more clothes but it still takes skill and this is coming from someone who's lucky to catch a cold. (I was ambushed by this virus, I didn't catch it)
The Rhythmic gymnastics which I landed on during my late night channel surfing was a joy. Maybe the heats weren't as good, I didn't see them just the finalists with the twirling ribbons. I can barely walk and chew gum at the same time so the idea of twirling a long silk ribbon and twirling a body with graceful moves without falling over doesn't seem to be silly just really difficult plus.
I'll be glad when it's all over. I'm sick of bursting into tears everytime the green and gold gets a medal and I did last night at the diving. I don't think I took a breath during M's dive and I loved the look on his face and his tears when he saw the score.
I'm not a sports fan so I'm blaming all this emotionality on this stupid virus. The bugs are going for a gold medal in endurance body destruction.
Saturday, August 23, 2008
FAT PEOPLE ARE THE NEW TERRORISTS
BLOATED OBESITY COSTS A THREAT TO THE NATION
Don't you love that headline. According to the article the cost of the obesity crisis has soared to $58 billion a year and taxpayers are bearing the burden. It seems that I must apologise to all the supporting thin people out there who are carrying me on their backs.
There has been a staggering (their words) 137% increase in cases of type 2 diabetes caused by excess weight. Chronic diseases such as heart disease, osteoarthritis and some forms of cancer have also soared as waistlines have expanded.
Now for some figures. 3.7 million Australians are obese. 17.5% of the population which could increase to 18.3% by 2025.
The biggest price of obesity came from lost wellbeing, and estimate of $49.9 billion. Lost productivity cost $3.6 billion, direct burden on the health system was $2 billion and carers' cost topped $1.9 billion.
The Federal Government had the biggest share, 34% of the bill, 30% was covered by the individual and 19% by family and friends.
But that's only for obese people not the overweight so the true cost could be higher. The experts want a ban on junk-food advertising to children, better food labelling and funding for lap-banding surgery. I'm all for the first two but surgery as an option, not for me. The report was from the Diabetes summit in Hobart.
I knew they were keeping those detention centres for a reason. Can a fattie round-up be close?
The increase in diabetes could be due to the fact that it's routine to test for it now. 25 years ago if you complained to your doctor about a raging thirst and weight loss then you had a test. 25 years ago we didn't know the fat content of a Big Mac, didn't know about low GI foods and didn't worry about letting the belt out another notch. We didn't have the internet to research and didn't have carbs, fats etc. labelled on our food. We also didn't have experts blaming fatties for ruining the country's economy.
I've ranted about this before but it really gets on my wick. Good food costs a lot, junk food doesn't. Supermarket shelves are laden with cheap chemical quick meals, just add meat. Rows of biscuits, potato crisps, soft drinks and sweets out number the rows of vegetables. Even the vegetables are suspect. Apples come from cold stores, garlic from China, oranges from California, in fact name a country and the supermarket will source food from it.
I'm looking at having organic food delivered to the house but the cost might be prohibitive. Everything I buy is wholegrain healthy. This week I had a free loaf from Baker's Delight and I grabbed the white hi-fibre low GI loaf and felt like I'd just scored a bag of ecstacy in a sleezy back alley. I'm doing my best, croissants and an ice-cream only on Sunday, bypass the chocolate aisle, drink water but I'm only human not Wonderwoman and I stress eat.
I'm very conscious of health. In the last three weeks, I've had a cousin, neighbour and friend die, two from cancer and one from Diabetes. My cousin was 53, the neighbour was 60 and the friend was 47. Two smoked, one had never been sick with more than a cold and none was obese or even overweight. There's no easy answer. More exercise? Another friend who is an athletic trainer says losing weight is 20% exercise and 80% diet.
What I need is someone to serve me three meals a day so I don't have to think about it.
Don't you love that headline. According to the article the cost of the obesity crisis has soared to $58 billion a year and taxpayers are bearing the burden. It seems that I must apologise to all the supporting thin people out there who are carrying me on their backs.
There has been a staggering (their words) 137% increase in cases of type 2 diabetes caused by excess weight. Chronic diseases such as heart disease, osteoarthritis and some forms of cancer have also soared as waistlines have expanded.
Now for some figures. 3.7 million Australians are obese. 17.5% of the population which could increase to 18.3% by 2025.
The biggest price of obesity came from lost wellbeing, and estimate of $49.9 billion. Lost productivity cost $3.6 billion, direct burden on the health system was $2 billion and carers' cost topped $1.9 billion.
The Federal Government had the biggest share, 34% of the bill, 30% was covered by the individual and 19% by family and friends.
But that's only for obese people not the overweight so the true cost could be higher. The experts want a ban on junk-food advertising to children, better food labelling and funding for lap-banding surgery. I'm all for the first two but surgery as an option, not for me. The report was from the Diabetes summit in Hobart.
I knew they were keeping those detention centres for a reason. Can a fattie round-up be close?
The increase in diabetes could be due to the fact that it's routine to test for it now. 25 years ago if you complained to your doctor about a raging thirst and weight loss then you had a test. 25 years ago we didn't know the fat content of a Big Mac, didn't know about low GI foods and didn't worry about letting the belt out another notch. We didn't have the internet to research and didn't have carbs, fats etc. labelled on our food. We also didn't have experts blaming fatties for ruining the country's economy.
I've ranted about this before but it really gets on my wick. Good food costs a lot, junk food doesn't. Supermarket shelves are laden with cheap chemical quick meals, just add meat. Rows of biscuits, potato crisps, soft drinks and sweets out number the rows of vegetables. Even the vegetables are suspect. Apples come from cold stores, garlic from China, oranges from California, in fact name a country and the supermarket will source food from it.
I'm looking at having organic food delivered to the house but the cost might be prohibitive. Everything I buy is wholegrain healthy. This week I had a free loaf from Baker's Delight and I grabbed the white hi-fibre low GI loaf and felt like I'd just scored a bag of ecstacy in a sleezy back alley. I'm doing my best, croissants and an ice-cream only on Sunday, bypass the chocolate aisle, drink water but I'm only human not Wonderwoman and I stress eat.
I'm very conscious of health. In the last three weeks, I've had a cousin, neighbour and friend die, two from cancer and one from Diabetes. My cousin was 53, the neighbour was 60 and the friend was 47. Two smoked, one had never been sick with more than a cold and none was obese or even overweight. There's no easy answer. More exercise? Another friend who is an athletic trainer says losing weight is 20% exercise and 80% diet.
What I need is someone to serve me three meals a day so I don't have to think about it.
Wednesday, August 20, 2008
I'M IN AWE
After declaring that I wouldn't bother watching the Olympics I've ended up plonked in front of the TV at strange hours because I can't sleep.
I watched the women's hockey with Australia and China. I use to play hockey, after a fashion. My main aim was not to run far, go anywhere near the ball or get hit with a stick and that was my hockey career. I know how hard it is to move the ball and not lose it at a walk but it was fantastic to watch the speed at which these players walloped it up and down the ground. I stuck it out to the end hoping the Aussies could pull off one more goal from nowhere.
I watched BMX races today. I thought about turning it off but the first time trial started and I was hooked. I used to ride a bike and staying upright was a challenge. The damn things almost fly and fast, more than fast. I have trouble walking and breathing let alone throw a bmx over a jump while pedalling and did I mention going fast.
Synchronised swimming, I'd drown. Hurdling, I'd fall over. Diving, just looking down from the tower makes me shake. My shoulders hurt watching the gymnasts on the rings, the high bar and the uneven bars.
I don't care how many medals Australia gets. It doesn't matter to me because to reach this level of brilliance is breathtaking. The athletes are disappointed enough without the armchair experts whinging that we haven't taken a big haul of gold.
I watched the women's hockey with Australia and China. I use to play hockey, after a fashion. My main aim was not to run far, go anywhere near the ball or get hit with a stick and that was my hockey career. I know how hard it is to move the ball and not lose it at a walk but it was fantastic to watch the speed at which these players walloped it up and down the ground. I stuck it out to the end hoping the Aussies could pull off one more goal from nowhere.
I watched BMX races today. I thought about turning it off but the first time trial started and I was hooked. I used to ride a bike and staying upright was a challenge. The damn things almost fly and fast, more than fast. I have trouble walking and breathing let alone throw a bmx over a jump while pedalling and did I mention going fast.
Synchronised swimming, I'd drown. Hurdling, I'd fall over. Diving, just looking down from the tower makes me shake. My shoulders hurt watching the gymnasts on the rings, the high bar and the uneven bars.
I don't care how many medals Australia gets. It doesn't matter to me because to reach this level of brilliance is breathtaking. The athletes are disappointed enough without the armchair experts whinging that we haven't taken a big haul of gold.
Friday, August 15, 2008
TOO SICK FOR COMPUTER
I never thought I'd say that but I haven't turned it on once this week. Good old blogger put the scheduled one up last Sunday and that was it.
I've lost interest in computer, food, chocolate and I still haven't spent my birthday money.
A family of microscopic gerbils fleeing from an intergalactic war has taken up residence in my right lung. At least that's what it sounds like, squeaking and eeking away except at night when I sometimes think Darth Vadar is lying beside me. How did he cope with that bloody breathing, it never stops.
Sleep deprivation is the pits.
I have developed empathy with anyone who battles cystic fibrosis, emphysema, asthma and chronic fatigue syndrome.
I'm boycotting Panadol flu tablets because of their ridiculous ad. Poor bloke, got his holiday all booked and he gets a cold, oh woe! But no worries, he's off to some tropical island with sun and water so he takes his Panadol and enjoys himself. You selfish prick, you're still crawling with germs that you're taking on the plane, breathing all over the islanders, leaving on door knobs, in the water but, hey, you don't feel a thing, I'm on pills. Panadol is the pits.
Paracetamol is okay to take when your temperature is heading towards 39. Years since I took a temperature and didn't notice the red number which is normal so ring sis to find out what is danger level. Making sure Mum has her pills keeps me from noticing I only have two paracetamol rolling round in the bottom of my bag. Sis arrives 10 minutes later with large packet and rings every half hour until temp. is down a couple of points.
Ice cold Sprite lemonade is divine when one is trying to force down a piece of dry toast.
Tired now, must rest for a big afternoon. I found a date scone in the freezer and I'm going to need all my strength for high tea.
I've lost interest in computer, food, chocolate and I still haven't spent my birthday money.
A family of microscopic gerbils fleeing from an intergalactic war has taken up residence in my right lung. At least that's what it sounds like, squeaking and eeking away except at night when I sometimes think Darth Vadar is lying beside me. How did he cope with that bloody breathing, it never stops.
Sleep deprivation is the pits.
I have developed empathy with anyone who battles cystic fibrosis, emphysema, asthma and chronic fatigue syndrome.
I'm boycotting Panadol flu tablets because of their ridiculous ad. Poor bloke, got his holiday all booked and he gets a cold, oh woe! But no worries, he's off to some tropical island with sun and water so he takes his Panadol and enjoys himself. You selfish prick, you're still crawling with germs that you're taking on the plane, breathing all over the islanders, leaving on door knobs, in the water but, hey, you don't feel a thing, I'm on pills. Panadol is the pits.
Paracetamol is okay to take when your temperature is heading towards 39. Years since I took a temperature and didn't notice the red number which is normal so ring sis to find out what is danger level. Making sure Mum has her pills keeps me from noticing I only have two paracetamol rolling round in the bottom of my bag. Sis arrives 10 minutes later with large packet and rings every half hour until temp. is down a couple of points.
Ice cold Sprite lemonade is divine when one is trying to force down a piece of dry toast.
Tired now, must rest for a big afternoon. I found a date scone in the freezer and I'm going to need all my strength for high tea.
Sunday, August 10, 2008
IT'S THAT DAY AGAIN
Euan James 1971-1995Mention the theme song from Titanic and people wince at the thought of Celine Dion's mangling of the English language and the words get lost. The first time I heard the song and really listened to it, I realised that it wasn't just for a lost lover.
Every night in my dreams
I see you, I feel you
That is how I know you go on
Far across the distance
and spaces between us
You have come to show you go on
Near, far, wherever you are
I believe that the heart does go on
Once more you open the door
And you're here in my heart
And my heart will go on
Love can touch us one time
And last for a lifetime
And never let go till we're one
Love was when I loved you
One true time I hold to
In my life we'll always go on
Near, far, wherever you are
I believe that the heart does go on
Once more you open the door
And you're here in my heart
And my heart will go on and on
There is some love that will not go away
You're here, there's nothing I fear,
And I know that my hear will go on
We'll stay forever this way
You are safe in my heart
And my heart will go on and on
Friday, August 08, 2008
EVIL GERMS
I can feel the little virus battalians mobilising for total warfare. The only good thing about it is that Mother doesn't want me anywhere near her. A shame I feel too crook to enjoy the freedom.
Lemonade icy-poles win over Vinegar and Salt crisps any day.
I spent the day in bed after I staggered to the shop for the above goodies. I loved lying there with the sun shining in, books to hand, snot to my chin and bits of lung being hacked up. (anybody eating?) Lemonade icy-poles really help.
So I'm reading an article about locust swarms and why they swarm. Scientists have determined that the locusts in the lead aren't hungry, they're the ones who are well fed on protein and salt. It's the ones behind who aren't getting the food. They're hot for the fat bodies in front and the fat bodies have to start moving fast before they become the food for the hungries behind and so the swarming begins.
All the time I was reading that and looking at the locust feeding on another locust, I could picture Brendan the Brave twirling his little antennae hoping to outrun Malcolm the Mighty who is trying to keep ahead of Costello the Cunning. The swarming of the Federal Liberal Party should make a ripper of a horror movie.
Lemonade icy-poles win over Vinegar and Salt crisps any day.
I spent the day in bed after I staggered to the shop for the above goodies. I loved lying there with the sun shining in, books to hand, snot to my chin and bits of lung being hacked up. (anybody eating?) Lemonade icy-poles really help.
So I'm reading an article about locust swarms and why they swarm. Scientists have determined that the locusts in the lead aren't hungry, they're the ones who are well fed on protein and salt. It's the ones behind who aren't getting the food. They're hot for the fat bodies in front and the fat bodies have to start moving fast before they become the food for the hungries behind and so the swarming begins.
All the time I was reading that and looking at the locust feeding on another locust, I could picture Brendan the Brave twirling his little antennae hoping to outrun Malcolm the Mighty who is trying to keep ahead of Costello the Cunning. The swarming of the Federal Liberal Party should make a ripper of a horror movie.
Wednesday, August 06, 2008
PIGS IN RUNDLE STREET, ADELAIDE
Davo took his camera to Adelaide for a short break and photographed the sculptures in Rundle Street. I fell in love with these bronze pigs so in the tradition of great bloggers, I've stolen them from him.
You can see them in Rundle Mall at the junction of Stephens Place. The sculptor was Marguerite Derricourt.
They were commissioned by the Adelaide City Council and unveiled by Former Lord Mayor (Dr. Jane Lomax-Smith) on 3 July, 1999.
This is Oliver, at the bin
This is Horatio, sitting
Truffles is the standing pig behind Horatio, Oliver at the bin and missing is Augusta, the trotting pig.
You can see them in Rundle Mall at the junction of Stephens Place. The sculptor was Marguerite Derricourt.
They were commissioned by the Adelaide City Council and unveiled by Former Lord Mayor (Dr. Jane Lomax-Smith) on 3 July, 1999.
This is Oliver, at the bin
This is Horatio, sitting
Truffles is the standing pig behind Horatio, Oliver at the bin and missing is Augusta, the trotting pig.NOW I'M CROOK
I have a chest infection. The best thing for that is lemon juice, honey and ginger.
But I've developed an allergy to citrus fruit, mainly grapefruit and orange, so it's no citrus for the moment. The rash is clearing up, no grapefruit. The headaches aren't as bad, no grapefruit. Isn't it marvellous, the only things that grow in the garden are the citrus trees.
I went through another diet day unscathed.
My mother rang. She wanted to know who turned 60 last week, her or me. How that woman passed a mental assessment I don't know.
But I've developed an allergy to citrus fruit, mainly grapefruit and orange, so it's no citrus for the moment. The rash is clearing up, no grapefruit. The headaches aren't as bad, no grapefruit. Isn't it marvellous, the only things that grow in the garden are the citrus trees.
I went through another diet day unscathed.
My mother rang. She wanted to know who turned 60 last week, her or me. How that woman passed a mental assessment I don't know.
Tuesday, August 05, 2008
TWENTY-FOUR HOURS
This is big news.
I have managed to stay on a diet for twenty-four hours.
Why does one small pototo, half a small carrot, 2 Brussell sprouts, 1 shallot and 200 grams of Tofu look like it would feed a small family when it goes on a plate?
Another good day tomorrow then I have to shop on Thursday.
It will be tough.
Why don't cakes come with the kilojoules stamped on the bottom then I could cheat just a little.
It will be tough.
I have managed to stay on a diet for twenty-four hours.
Why does one small pototo, half a small carrot, 2 Brussell sprouts, 1 shallot and 200 grams of Tofu look like it would feed a small family when it goes on a plate?
Another good day tomorrow then I have to shop on Thursday.
It will be tough.
Why don't cakes come with the kilojoules stamped on the bottom then I could cheat just a little.
It will be tough.
Saturday, August 02, 2008
MARRIAGE EQUALITY
The Victorian Gay and Lesbian Rights Lobby invites you to the 4th annual Equal Love rally and Midwinta vows.While some progress has been made with an imminent Victorian Relationships Register, same-sex relationships are still not fully recognised in law and marriage is still banned.
We invite you and your friends, families, colleagues and neighbours to join us on Sunday August 3 to 'Stand up for your love rights'.
Details:
EQUAL LOVE RALLY + MIDWINTA VOWS
SUNDAY AUGUST 3, 1PM
STATE LIBRARY Cnr SWANSTON & LA TROBE Sts
Details:
EQUAL LOVE RALLY + MIDWINTA VOWS
SUNDAY AUGUST 3, 1PM
STATE LIBRARY Cnr SWANSTON & LA TROBE Sts
This is just not only about every gay couple in the village wanting to overwhelm churches and registry offices to get married. It's about having a choice whether or not to make a partnership official. Gays and Lesbians don't have this choice, it was denied them by an act of Parliament. An act that singled out their relationships as having no value to society. The current Government is not in a hurry to right a wrong but we're working on them. In a world of hate, let's go for love.
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